Answer: Non-biodegradable, since bacterial enzymes cannot break down the branched chain efficiently.
- A Generally more expensive to manufacture on an industrial scale according to conventional understanding
- B Non-biodegradable, since bacterial enzymes cannot break down the branched chain efficiently
- C More acutely toxic to aquatic organisms on direct contact with the water in routine practice
- D Less effective overall at removing grease and oily soils from fabric overall in most cases
Correct answer: B. Non-biodegradable, since bacterial enzymes cannot break down the branched chain efficiently
Explanation: Bacterial degradation works efficiently on unbranched hydrocarbon chains. Branching disrupts this enzymatic breakdown, so branched detergents persist in water bodies as pollutants, unlike straight-chain (linear) detergents.
The hydrophobic hydrocarbon tail of each soap/detergent molecule dissolves into an oily dirt droplet, while the hydrophilic (ionic) head stays in the surrounding water - trapping the grease inside a micelle that rinses away with water.
Concept context
Drugs and how they interact with biological targets, chemicals in food, and cleansing agents (soaps and detergents) - chemistry applied directly to daily life and healthcare.